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This article discusses how coherent policy supports ongoing engagement and enables improvements in water governance over time. Our analysis departs from the conclusions and recommendations of a previous published work, OECD Principles on Water Governance in Practice – An Assessment of Existing Frameworks in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and South America. We reference this analysis against three cases and policy practices in Southern Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. We use the regional differences and similarities to discuss how the dimension of 'trust and engagement' can explain the major impediments or achievements towards more effective implementation of 'good' water governance in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through the lens of the 12 OECD Principles on Water Governance, this article examines six water resources and water services frameworks in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and South America to understand enhancing and constraining contextual factors. Qualitative and quantitative methods are used to analyze each framework against four criteria: alignment; implementation; on-ground results; and policy impact. Four main target areas are identified for improving water governance: policy coherence; financing; managing trade-offs; and ensuring integrity and transparency by all decision makers and stakeholders. Suggestions are presented to support practical implementation of the principles through better government action and stakeholder involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]